Wadi Rum Travel Guide
The Ultimate "Valley of the Moon" Experience
Overview
- UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Martian landscapes
- Home to Bedouin communities and dramatic rock formations
- Famous filming location (Lawrence of Arabia, The Martian)
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
- Ideal during cloudy weather for stunning light/shadow effects
- Avoid peak summer heat (June-August)
Entry Fees
- 5 JD per person (free with Jordan Pass)
Getting There
From Aqaba
- Bus/Minibus: 1-3 JD, departs hourly (07:00-15:00)
- Taxi: 25-35 JD (40 JD round trip)
- Direct buses to Visitor’s Centre limited (check schedules)
From Petra
- Daily Bus: 7 JD, departs 06:00 (1.5 hrs)
- Taxi: 30-35 JD
From Amman
- Bus to Aqaba: 7-12 JD, then taxi
- Service Taxi: 15-25 JD/person
Getting Around
- 4x4 Tours: 50-75 JD (3-5 hrs)
- Camel Rides: 20 JD/hour
- Hiking: Possible but challenging (carry GPS/map)
Top Attractions
- Lawrence’s Spring – Historic oasis with panoramic views
- Khazali Canyon – Ancient Nabatean inscriptions
- Red Sand Dunes – Perfect for photos and sprinting down
- Umm Fruth Rock Bridge – Iconic natural arch
- Seven Pillars of Wisdom – Striking rock formation
Activities
- Guided 4x4/Camel Tours
- Rock Climbing/Scrambling
- Hot Air Ballooning (100-150 JD)
- Stargazing (Best at night camps)
Where to Stay
- Desert Camps: Range from basic to luxury (book in advance)
- Avoid Rum Village – No proper accommodations
Eating & Drinking
- Bedouin Meals: Try zarb (underground BBQ)
- Tea: Sweet mint/sage tea served everywhere
- Village Shops: Limited supplies (stock up beforehand)
Avoiding Scams
- Taxi Drivers: Some may take you to Shakariya instead of Wadi Rum
- Petra Tours: Confirm if visiting actual Wadi Rum Reserve
- "Rum 1/Rum 2": These designations don’t exist
Departure Options
To Aqaba
- Minibus: 3 JD (06:30 departure)
- Taxi: 15-25 JD
To Petra
- Minibus: 7.5-10 JD (08:30 departure)
- Taxi: 30-35 JD
To Amman
- Tourist Minibus: 20 JD (book via accommodation)
Final Tips
- Pack warm – Desert nights get cold
- Carry cash (limited ATMs)
- Respect Bedouin culture
- Leave no trace
